Carolina Panthers WR David Gettis is back on field, looking to make impact

Charlotte Observer | Aug 12

David Gettis looked like a promising rookie receiver in 2010 blowing past defensive backs with his sprinter’s speed and scoring three touchdowns for a Carolina Panthers’ squad that only had 16 offensive scores as a team.

Then he was gone.

A torn ACL in his left knee at training camp ended Gettis’ 2011 season and a nagging hamstring injury limited him to two games during 2012. Gettis resurfaced Friday night against the Chicago Bears catching a team-high three passes for 56 yards in a preseason win.

“It’s been two years since I actually got some playing time” Gettis said Sunday. “Everything’s about progressing right now.”

Gettis began last season on the physically unable to perform list and wasn’t much of a factor after being activated in November. He recorded no stats against Denver and Atlanta.

“Last year I was up there just to be there” Gettis said. “This year they’re giving me the opportunity to make plays and show where I’m at as far as my health and my overall knowledge of the offense and the system.”

Gettis said he’s 100 percent healthy and running like he did as a rookie when he caught 37 passes for 508 yards and the three scores – including an 88-yarder from Brian St. Pierre that tied for the third-longest reception in team history.

Gettis is competing with Armanti Edwards Kealoha Pilares and Joe Adams for one of the final receiving spots on the 53-man roster. Receivers coach Ricky Proehl said Gettis has improved his route-running which had been a concern and looks good physically.